Applicability and Design Considerations of Chaotic and Quantum Entropy Sources for Random Number Generation in IoT...

Area of Science:

• Computer Science
• Information Theory
• Cryptography

Background:

• Random number generators are crucial for secure cryptographic processes in IoT.
• Two main approaches exist: pseudorandom number generators (PRNGs) based on deterministic chaotic systems and true random number generators (TRNGs) utilizing quantum phenomena.
• Selecting the appropriate generator impacts the security and efficiency of IoT solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comparatively analyze the performance of a logistic map-based PRNG and a commercial quantum random number generator (QRNG).
• To provide guidance for selecting the optimal random number generator for diverse IoT applications based on their specific requirements.
• To evaluate the randomness and entropy of generated sequences from both generator types.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical analysis of chaotic dynamics for the logistic map PRNG.
• Theoretical review of photon detection principles for QRNGs.
• Development of a hardware IP Core for the logistic map PRNG, implementable on ASIC or FPGA.
• Randomness evaluation using the 'ent' tool and NIST test suite for both generator outputs.

Main Results:

• The logistic map PRNG was implemented as a hardware IP Core.
• Both the logistic map PRNG and the QRNG were subjected to rigorous randomness testing.
• Comparative analysis of entropy levels and statistical randomness properties was conducted.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a framework for selecting between chaotic PRNGs and QRNGs for IoT applications.
• The choice depends on factors like required randomness quality, data volume, and application-specific constraints.
• Both generator types offer distinct advantages for different cryptographic needs in the Internet of Things.